Awards

AOCS takes great pride in recognizing individual and company achievements that advance the science and technology of oils, fats, proteins, surfactants and related materials. The AOCS Awards Program acknowledges the passion of both members and nonmembers for advancing the science of fats and oils, by working toward new and innovative applications.

How to nominate:

Read the full award descriptions and eligibility requirements. (Self-nominations are welcomed and encouraged, excluding the Alton E. Bailey Award.)

Submit nomination materials - more information is coming soon on how to submit. Please continue to submit Travel Grant materials as PDF files to awards@aocs.org.

The A.R. Baldwin Distinguished Service Award recognizes long-term, distinguished service to AOCS in a variety of positions of significant responsibility. This is the Society’s highest service award and was first given in 1981 to A. Richard Baldwin. Sponsored by Cargill Inc.

2020 Recipient

Sevim Z. Erhan has a B.S. and an M.S. in chemical engineering from the University of Istanbul, Turkey (1980) and a Ph.D. in organic-polymer chemistry from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan (1987). She has been with the US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (ARS), since 1988. She was a postdoctoral associate, research scientist and research leader at the ARS National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research in Peoria, Illinois, from 1988-2008, and then became center director of the ARS Eastern Regional Research Center in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, 2008-present.

Her research subjects are vegetable-oil-based industrial products, including printing inks, paints, coatings, lubricants, biodiesel, hydraulic oils and composites. She has authored or coauthored over 250 scientific articles, including 9 US Patents, 2 books and 29 book chapters. She has been invited to present her research findings at more than 200 national and international scientific meetings. She has received several Agricultural Research Service awards and industrial awards, including the Land of Lincoln Soybean Association Market Award; US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service Distinguished Service Award; Federal Laboratory Consortium Award for Excellence in Technology Transfer; United Soybean Board Outstanding Achievement Award; Oil Technologists Association of India KT. Achaya Award; Fellow, Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers; Fellow, AOCS; Federal Laboratory Consortium Laboratory Director of the Year Award; American Chemical Society Distinguished Achievement and Service in Agricultural and Food Chemistry Award; and NEA Research Leadership and Center Directorship Award.

The Alton E. Bailey Award recognizes outstanding research contributions and exceptional service in the field of fats, oils, lipids and related disciplines. Sponsored by Archer Daniels Midland (ADM).

This award commemorates Alton Bailey's outstanding contributions to the field of fats and oils as a researcher, an author of several standard books, and as a leader in the Society. Learn more about Alton Bailey.

2020 Recipient

Tong (Toni) Wang has been a professor of food science at University of Tennessee (UT) since April 2019 after her faculty tenure at Iowa State University (ISU) from 2000 to 2019. Professor Wang's research focuses on chemistry and value-added utilization of agriculture products such as soybeans, corn, egg, dairy and other oleaginous biomass, primarily for their lipid components. The two primary areas of her research are (1) creating smart lipid materials and developing sustainable oil processing technologies, and (2) enhancing egg and dairy product quality and applications, such as egg nutrient enrichment via feeding and extraction of yolk and dairy polar lipids. She has received numerous industry and federal research grants that support her creative work and training of 36 graduate students and 20 post-docs and visiting scientists. She was recognized as an AOCS Fellow in 2016, with the ISU Mid-Career Achievement in Research in 2014, and the AOCS' Timothy L. Mounts Award in 2013. She found her academic home from her young graduate school age and ever since has been passionately serving the JAOCS family in various capacities.

The AOCS Award of Merit recognizes an AOCS Member who has displayed leadership in administrative activities, meritorious service on AOCS committees or performed an outstanding activity or service.

2020 Recipient

Masaki Tsumadori retired from Kao Corporation in February 2016 as a research fellow in strategy research, R&D, and as the director of the Kao Eco-Lab Museum. He is now a senior R&D advisor at Kao Corporation. He also runs his own global consulting business in the field of R&D planning. Mr. Tsumadori earned a master's degree in polymer chemistry from the Nagoya Institute of Technology in 1977. He began his career at Kao Corporation in 1977, working as a research chemist developing fabric and home care products. He subsequently held senior positions across research and development, including manager of hard surface cleaners from 1987 and director of fabric care products such as laundry detergents, fabric softeners and bleaches from 1997. During 1997-2002, he played key roles in the development and launch of powder and liquid laundry detergents in Japan and Asian countries, including the Attack brand. He was appointed vice president of global R&D, fabric and home care, of Kao Corporation in 2002. Mr. Tsumadori was a member of the governing board of AOCS from 2011 to 2016 and has been supporting the World Conference on Fabric and Home Care as a member of the Executive Committee since 2010.

The AOCS Fellow Award recognizes achievements in science and/or extraordinary service to the Society.

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

Current AOCS members that have:

at least 15 years of continuous AOCS Membership

made exceptional achievements in science and/or exceptionally important service to the Society or the profession, including any of the areas of research, industrial achievement, leadership, education, administration, communication, or regulatory affairs

How do I nominate someone?

Instructions on how to submit nomination materials are coming soon. The following nominations materials must be submittted by August 1.

Letter of nomination describing the candidate's contributions and service to the Society

At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishment or service to the Society

Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

2020 Recipients

Fred Eller, III is a research chemist in the Functional Foods Research Unit at the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, USDA-ARS, Peoria, Illinois. Dr. Eller is a native of Saint Paul, Minnesota, and received his B.Sc. and M.Sc. from the University of Minnesota and his Ph.D. from the University of Florida. He joined ARS in 1990, initially investigating insect chemical attractants (e.g., the isolation and identification of the aggregation pheromone of the pepper weevil). He subsequently redirected his research efforts and focused on the utilization of supercritical fluids for the extraction and analysis of lipids under the tutelage and mentorship of Drs. Jerry W. King and Gary R. List.

Dr. Eller has been an active member of AOCS since 1996 and has organized symposia at AOCS Annual Meetings, held leadership roles in the Analytical Division, served on a variety of AOCS committees and currently serves as an associate editor for the Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society (2007-present). Dr. Eller was awarded the AOCS Herbert J. Dutton Award in 2013. He has authored or coauthored 90 publications and is first inventor on two United States Patents. He has also made 46 presentations at national and international meetings. Dr. Eller's current research interests include the utilization of critical fluids for the extraction, counter-current fractionation and processing of agricultural materials, as well as the isolation and identification of bioactive natural products. He is especially interested in cedarwood oil extraction, bioactivity and utilization.

Lars Reimann received a Cand Scient. in biochemistry/analytical chemistry from University of Copenhagen. He has worked in the food/feed and agriculture related areas for more than 20 years and has managed laboratories specializing in the analysis of a wide variety of foods and feeds as well as their ingredients to determine compliance with industry standards, to verify nutritional value and to ensure the absence of food safety issues.

Mr. Reimann has been an active AOCS member since 1982 and has fully participated in many AOCS Technical committees and divisions. His passion for good science coupled with his critical thinking abilities has furthered the success of AOCS. Lars has been proposing and moderating sessions for the Analytical and Health and Nutrition Divisions since 2000. He has mentored countless employees and students throughout his AOCS tenure and always encourages people to join AOCS and to get involved with the Society. Mr. Reimann has ensured his laboratories were participating in multiple Smalley Check Sample series and Laboratory Proficiency Program (LPP) series as well as been a member of the Smalley Committee and the LPP Committee. His labs also are home to several AOCS Approved Chemists and are AOCS-NOPA Certified Labs. He ensured his labs participated in every collaborative study administered by AOCS since the 1980s. He has been enthusiastically involved with the Uniform Methods Committee and its Subcommittees since he joined AOCS and currently is a voting member of the Uniform Methods Committee. He has worked tirelessly to ensure AOCS Methods are relevant and up-to-date. He is a behind-the-scenes force championing for AOCS to be the very best. Mr. Reimann's most recent efforts include organizing a new series for Dried Distillers Grains (DDGs) for LPP; involvement with the method validation studies for 3-MCPD and Glycidyl Esters; and working on the Forum Organizing Committee for the AOCS Pulse Science and Technology Forum.

The Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship is awarded to graduate students doing research in fats, oils, proteins, surfactants and related materials. The purpose of this graduate fellowship is to encourage, recognize and support outstanding research in a field of study consistent with the areas of interest to AOCS.

This award was established in memory of Dr. Smouse’s dedication and enthusiasm for lipid chemistry and his commitment to family, education, and AOCS. Dr. Smouse was a long-time member and very active volunteer in AOCS, including serving as President of AOCS in 1983. As well as a noted industrial researcher into the flavor chemistry of fats and oils. Archer Daniels Midland Foundation, AOCS Foundation, AOCS, and the family and friends of Dr. Smouse established and assisted in this fellowship’s funding.

Who is eligible?

Graduate students who are AOCS members that:

are conducting research at an educational institution that is conducting fundamental investigations in the chemistry of fats, oils, proteins, surfactants and related materials, with an above average interest in and aptitude for research

have never received the Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship

Note: the graduate student’s major professor supervising the research must also be a current AOCS member

How to nominate?

The professor should review the application for completeness, and then send the following application materials as a single mailing to the AOCS main office by February 1.

Letter of nomination from the major professor supervising the research

Major professor statement confirming good standing at the university (complete within the application)

At least three letters of recommendation from deans, department heads and/or professors who have supervised the student’s most recent academic work. These letters should present essential facts regarding: 1) scholastic record, 2) character and personality, 3) interest and capability in research, 4) ability to cooperate with others, 5) capacity for work, and 6) extracurricular activities

Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate colleges or university work completed to date

The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) Distinguished Paper Award of the AOCS Surfactants and Detergents Division recognizes an outstanding paper published in the area of surfactants and detergents. Sponsored by the American Cleaning Institute (ACI).

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

All papers published within Journal of Surfactants and Detergents(JSD) during the calendar year before the AOCS Annual Meeting are eligible, with the exception of papers listing author(s) who received the award within the previous three years. Authors do not need to be members of AOCS or the Division.

How do I nominate someone?

No nomination required. All JSD journal articles are automatically considered. The Surfactants and Detergents Division Chair identifies an awards committee that selects the winning paper after the 4th quarter publication of JSD. Reviews begin January 1.

2020 Recipients

The Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) Award for Best Paper in Protein and Co-Products recognizes outstanding papers that report original research in the categories of chemistry/nutrition and engineering/technology of protein and co-products. One paper is selected from each category. Presented by the Protein and Co-Products Division. Sponsored by Archer Daniels Midland (ADM).

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

All papers published within the Journal of American Oil Chemists’ Society(JAOCS) during the calendar year before the AOCS Annual Meeting are eligible, with the exception of papers listing author(s) who received the award within the previous three years. Authors do not need to be members of AOCS or the Division.

How do I nominate someone?

No nomination required. All JAOCS journal articles are automatically considered. The Protein and Co-Products Division Chair identifies an awards committee that selects the winning paper after the 4th quarter publication of JAOCS. Reviews begin January 1.

The Edwin N. Frankel Award for Best Paper in Lipid Oxidation and Quality recognizes an outstanding paper in the area of lipid oxidation or quality. This award is presented by the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division in recognition of Edwin Frankel's 50 years of lipid oxidation research. Sponsored by Kalsec.

Who is eligible?

All papers published within an AOCS journal during the calendar year before the AOCS Annual Meeting that address oxidation, stability, quality or flavor of lipids are eligible. Authors do not need to be members of AOCS or the Division.

How do I nominate someone?

No nomination required. All AOCS journal articles are automatically considered. The Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Chair identifies an awards committee that selects the winning paper after the 4th quarter publication. Reviews begin January 1.

The A.R. Baldwin Distinguished Service Award recognizes long-term, distinguished service to AOCS in a variety of positions of significant responsibility. This is the Society’s highest service award and was first given in 1981 to A. Richard Baldwin. Sponsored by Cargill Inc.

2020 Recipient

Sevim Z. Erhan has a B.S. and an M.S. in chemical engineering from the University of Istanbul, Turkey (1980) and a Ph.D. in organic-polymer chemistry from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan (1987). She has been with the US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (ARS), since 1988. She was a postdoctoral associate, research scientist and research leader at the ARS National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research in Peoria, Illinois, from 1988-2008, and then became center director of the ARS Eastern Regional Research Center in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, 2008-present.

Her research subjects are vegetable-oil-based industrial products, including printing inks, paints, coatings, lubricants, biodiesel, hydraulic oils and composites. She has authored or coauthored over 250 scientific articles, including 9 US Patents, 2 books and 29 book chapters. She has been invited to present her research findings at more than 200 national and international scientific meetings. She has received several Agricultural Research Service awards and industrial awards, including the Land of Lincoln Soybean Association Market Award; US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service Distinguished Service Award; Federal Laboratory Consortium Award for Excellence in Technology Transfer; United Soybean Board Outstanding Achievement Award; Oil Technologists Association of India KT. Achaya Award; Fellow, Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers; Fellow, AOCS; Federal Laboratory Consortium Laboratory Director of the Year Award; American Chemical Society Distinguished Achievement and Service in Agricultural and Food Chemistry Award; and NEA Research Leadership and Center Directorship Award.

The Australasian (AAOCS) Section Award of Scientific Excellence in Lipid Research is awarded to a scientist from within the Australasian region that has made a significant research contribution toward fats and oils research, either cumulatively or in a single major advancement. The award is held every second year in conjunction with the Section's biennial meeting

What does the recipient receive?

Complimentary registration to attend and present an award lecture at the AAOCS Section biennial meeting

Who is eligible?

Current members of the AOCS Australasian Section from the Australasian Region

Scientists that have made significant research contribution towards fats and oils research, either cumulative (lifetime achievement) or one major advancement that holds substantial promise for its effect in the near future

How to nominate?

Send the following nomination materials as PDF files to Matt Miller by August 1.

Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials

At least two letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments

2020 Recipients

The Alton E. Bailey Award recognizes outstanding research contributions and exceptional service in the field of fats, oils, lipids and related disciplines. Sponsored by Archer Daniels Midland (ADM).

This award commemorates Alton Bailey's outstanding contributions to the field of fats and oils as a researcher, an author of several standard books, and as a leader in the Society. Learn more about Alton Bailey.

2020 Recipient

Tong (Toni) Wang has been a professor of food science at University of Tennessee (UT) since April 2019 after her faculty tenure at Iowa State University (ISU) from 2000 to 2019. Professor Wang's research focuses on chemistry and value-added utilization of agriculture products such as soybeans, corn, egg, dairy and other oleaginous biomass, primarily for their lipid components. The two primary areas of her research are (1) creating smart lipid materials and developing sustainable oil processing technologies, and (2) enhancing egg and dairy product quality and applications, such as egg nutrient enrichment via feeding and extraction of yolk and dairy polar lipids. She has received numerous industry and federal research grants that support her creative work and training of 36 graduate students and 20 post-docs and visiting scientists. She was recognized as an AOCS Fellow in 2016, with the ISU Mid-Career Achievement in Research in 2014, and the AOCS' Timothy L. Mounts Award in 2013. She found her academic home from her young graduate school age and ever since has been passionately serving the JAOCS family in various capacities.

The AOCS Award of Merit recognizes an AOCS Member who has displayed leadership in administrative activities, meritorious service on AOCS committees or performed an outstanding activity or service.

2020 Recipient

Masaki Tsumadori retired from Kao Corporation in February 2016 as a research fellow in strategy research, R&D, and as the director of the Kao Eco-Lab Museum. He is now a senior R&D advisor at Kao Corporation. He also runs his own global consulting business in the field of R&D planning. Mr. Tsumadori earned a master's degree in polymer chemistry from the Nagoya Institute of Technology in 1977. He began his career at Kao Corporation in 1977, working as a research chemist developing fabric and home care products. He subsequently held senior positions across research and development, including manager of hard surface cleaners from 1987 and director of fabric care products such as laundry detergents, fabric softeners and bleaches from 1997. During 1997-2002, he played key roles in the development and launch of powder and liquid laundry detergents in Japan and Asian countries, including the Attack brand. He was appointed vice president of global R&D, fabric and home care, of Kao Corporation in 2002. Mr. Tsumadori was a member of the governing board of AOCS from 2011 to 2016 and has been supporting the World Conference on Fabric and Home Care as a member of the Executive Committee since 2010.

The AOCS Corporate Achievement Award recognizes industry achievement for an outstanding process, product or contribution that has made a substantial impact on its industry segment. This award is presented every other year.

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

A corporation whose process, product or contribution has been successfully applied in actual commercial operation for at least six months, but no more than six years before August 1 of the year in which the nomination is submitted

That outstanding process or product must represent a significant advancement in the application of technology to any segment of the fats, oils, or byproducts in one of the areas represented by AOCS Divisions

How to nominate?

Instructions on how to submit nomination materials are coming soon. The following nominations materials must be submittted by August 1.

Letter of nomination that describes the development of the product or process under consideration, as well as its importance in terms of public health and its scientific, technological and economic impact

At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the company’s products or process

Submission of product samples, promotional videos and reprints describing the product or process may also be included

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

Current AOCS members that have:

at least 15 years of continuous AOCS Membership

made exceptional achievements in science and/or exceptionally important service to the Society or the profession, including any of the areas of research, industrial achievement, leadership, education, administration, communication, or regulatory affairs

How do I nominate someone?

Instructions on how to submit nomination materials are coming soon. The following nominations materials must be submittted by August 1.

Letter of nomination describing the candidate's contributions and service to the Society

At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishment or service to the Society

Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

2020 Recipients

Fred Eller, III is a research chemist in the Functional Foods Research Unit at the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, USDA-ARS, Peoria, Illinois. Dr. Eller is a native of Saint Paul, Minnesota, and received his B.Sc. and M.Sc. from the University of Minnesota and his Ph.D. from the University of Florida. He joined ARS in 1990, initially investigating insect chemical attractants (e.g., the isolation and identification of the aggregation pheromone of the pepper weevil). He subsequently redirected his research efforts and focused on the utilization of supercritical fluids for the extraction and analysis of lipids under the tutelage and mentorship of Drs. Jerry W. King and Gary R. List.

Dr. Eller has been an active member of AOCS since 1996 and has organized symposia at AOCS Annual Meetings, held leadership roles in the Analytical Division, served on a variety of AOCS committees and currently serves as an associate editor for the Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society (2007-present). Dr. Eller was awarded the AOCS Herbert J. Dutton Award in 2013. He has authored or coauthored 90 publications and is first inventor on two United States Patents. He has also made 46 presentations at national and international meetings. Dr. Eller's current research interests include the utilization of critical fluids for the extraction, counter-current fractionation and processing of agricultural materials, as well as the isolation and identification of bioactive natural products. He is especially interested in cedarwood oil extraction, bioactivity and utilization.

Lars Reimann received a Cand Scient. in biochemistry/analytical chemistry from University of Copenhagen. He has worked in the food/feed and agriculture related areas for more than 20 years and has managed laboratories specializing in the analysis of a wide variety of foods and feeds as well as their ingredients to determine compliance with industry standards, to verify nutritional value and to ensure the absence of food safety issues.

Mr. Reimann has been an active AOCS member since 1982 and has fully participated in many AOCS Technical committees and divisions. His passion for good science coupled with his critical thinking abilities has furthered the success of AOCS. Lars has been proposing and moderating sessions for the Analytical and Health and Nutrition Divisions since 2000. He has mentored countless employees and students throughout his AOCS tenure and always encourages people to join AOCS and to get involved with the Society. Mr. Reimann has ensured his laboratories were participating in multiple Smalley Check Sample series and Laboratory Proficiency Program (LPP) series as well as been a member of the Smalley Committee and the LPP Committee. His labs also are home to several AOCS Approved Chemists and are AOCS-NOPA Certified Labs. He ensured his labs participated in every collaborative study administered by AOCS since the 1980s. He has been enthusiastically involved with the Uniform Methods Committee and its Subcommittees since he joined AOCS and currently is a voting member of the Uniform Methods Committee. He has worked tirelessly to ensure AOCS Methods are relevant and up-to-date. He is a behind-the-scenes force championing for AOCS to be the very best. Mr. Reimann's most recent efforts include organizing a new series for Dried Distillers Grains (DDGs) for LPP; involvement with the method validation studies for 3-MCPD and Glycidyl Esters; and working on the Forum Organizing Committee for the AOCS Pulse Science and Technology Forum.

The AOCS Young Scientist Research Award recognizes a young scientist who has made a significant and substantial research contribution in one of the areas represented by AOCS Divisions. Sponsored by the International Food Science Centre A/S.

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

Scientists who:

are younger than 36 years old, or have received their highest degree within the previous ten years, as of June 1st of the year of presentation

have made significant contribution in basic or applied research and that knowledge must either have a significant effect on advances in the discipline or hold substantial promise for its effect in the near future

AOCS membership is not required, but preference is given to members and volunteers

How to nominate?

Instructions on how to submit nomination materials are coming soon. The following nominations materials must be submittted by August 1.

Letter of nomination describing the candidate's research and service in the fields of fats, oils and related materials

At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments

Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

2020 Recipient

Bingcan Chen received his Ph.D. in 2012 from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He is currently an assistant professor of cereal and food chemistry at North Dakota State University. The primary goal of his research is to gain better understanding of lipid oxidation mechanisms in foods and cereal products and to provide efficient means to improve food quality. Dr. Chen has been very active in lipid oxidation research since he was graduate student. His Ph.D. thesis focused on the impact of reverse micelles on bulk oil oxidation and the effectiveness of antioxidants. His current research focuses on lipid oxidation, novel antioxidants, specialty oil from new and emerging crops, and flavor chemistry. He has published more than 60 peer-reviewed articles and four book chapters. Dr. Chen has received several awards from AOCS, including the Lipid Oxidation and Quality (LOQ) Division Junior Researcher Travel Grant, Young Scientists to Watch and the Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship. Dr. Chen is an active member in the AOCS LOQ Division since 2009 and currently is the Secretary-Treasurer of the Division.

The Biotechnology Division Ching Hou Biotechnology Award recognizes a scientist, technologist or leader who has made significant contributions to the advancement of the Division’s area of interest.

2020 Recipient

Jun Ogawa, Kyoto University, Japan

The Edible Applications Technology Division Outstanding Achievement Award recognizes a scientist, technologist or leader who has made significant contributions to the Division’s area of interest or to the advancement of edible oils.

2020 Recipient

Lorin R. DeBonte, Cargill, Inc., USA

The Health and Nutrition Division New Investigator Research Award recognizes a young scientist who is making significant and substantial research contributions in one of the areas represented by the Division’s area of interest.

How to nominate?

2020 Recipient

Not awarded in 2020.

The Herbert J. Dutton Award of the AOCS Analytical Division recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the analysis of fats, oils and related products.

This award commemorates Hebert Dutton’s meritorious and long-term contributions to lipid research, with one of his most important contributions being in glyceride structure. Herbert Dutton was the first recipient to receive the award in 1993. Learn more about Herbert Dutton.

2020 Recipient

Scott Bloomer, American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS), USA

The Protein and Co-Products Division Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes significant contributions to the advancement of protein and co-products through research and applications. This award is presented every other year.

2020 Recipient

Keshun Liu, US Department of Agriculture, USA

The Ralph Holman Lifetime Achievement Award of the AOCS Health and Nutrition Division recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the Division’s area of interest, or whose work has resulted in major advances in health and nutrition.

This award commemorates Ralph Holman’s lifetime service to the study of essential fatty acids and their impact on human health and to the Society. Dr. Holman was not only an accomplished biochemist, but a devoted father and husband, a man of integrity and a role model for students and young scientists. Learn more about Ralph Holman.

2020 Recipient

Richard P. Bazinet, University of Toronto, Canada

The Samuel Rosen Memorial Award of the AOCS Surfactants and Detergents Division recognizes an individual who has made a significant advancement, cumulative advancements, or application of surfactant chemistry principles. This award commemorates more than 40 years of Samuel Rosen’s work as an industrial chemist on the formulation of printing inks. Initiated and sponsored by Milton J. Rosen.

2020 Recipient

Jean-Louis Salager, Universidad de Los Andes, Venezuela

The Schroepfer Medal recognizes a scientist who has made significant and distinguished advances in the steroid field.

To honor the memory of George J. Schroepfer, Jr., a leader in the sterol and lipid field for more than 40 years, the Schroepfer Medal was established. The award aims to foster Schroepfer's ideals of personal integrity, high scientific standards, perseverance and a strong spirit of survival, tempered by charm and wit. Initiated by colleagues of George Schroepfer, this award is presented every other year.

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

significant and distinguished accomplishments in the steroid field, which is defined to encompass sterols and other natural and synthetic compounds incorporating the tetracyclic gonane ring system

fundamental advances that are primarily chemical, pharmacological, or analytical will also be considered

Preference is given to mature scientists who have not previously received a major award at the national or international level

Special consideration is given to interdisciplinary research in which rigorous chemical and analytical methods were applied to elucidate the biochemical and physiological roles of steroids in animals, plants, or microorganisms

AOCS membership is not required, but preference is given to members

How to nominate?

Instructions on how to submit nomination materials are coming soon. The following nominations materials must be submittted by August 1.

Letter of nomination describing the candidate's significant accomplishments in the steroid field

At least three letters of support from individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments

Curriculum Vitae which includes a full list of publications and patents

2020 Recipient

Not awarded in 2020.

The Stephen S. Chang Award recognizes a scientist, technologist or engineer who has made distinguished accomplishments in research for the improvement or development of products related to lipids. This award is made possible by the Stephen and Lucy Chang Endowed Fund.

Stephen Chang came to the United States in 1947 and became actively involved in AOCS after graduate studies at the University of Kansas and the University of Illinois. He served on numerous committees, including the Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society (JAOCS) editorial team and AOCS Governing Board leadership. Learn more about Stephen Chang.

2020 Recipient

Dharma R. Kodali is a world-recognized expert in lipids and new product development and has 40 years of research experience in academia and industry. He is currently an adjunct professor in bioproducts and biosystems engineering at the University of Minnesota. Previously, he was a professor at the University of Minnesota and Boston University, studying the fundamental aspects of structurally defined lipids synthesis, molecular packing, properties, and their influence on metabolism and development of value-added products. His industrial experience includes working as a scientist and R&D manager at Cargill and as a senior principal dcientist at General Mills, developing several new products from concept to commercialization. His primary areas of research continue to be developing value-added products from fats and oils and agricultural materials for food and industrial applications.

Dr. Kodali authored or co-authored over 75 publications and book chapters and edited two books on trans fats. He is an inventor/co-inventor on 30 patents. His accomplishments include Cargill's Chairman's Innovation Award (2001), the American Chemical Society's Industrial Innovation Award (2002), and the AOCS Timothy L. Mounts Award (2003) and Alton E. Bailey Award (2017). He is an elected Fellow of the American Institute of Chemists (2004) and an AOCS Fellow (2010). He has served in AOCS in various capacities, including chair, Industrial Oil Products Division; teaching short courses; as an associate editor and peer reviewer for JAOCS; as session chair at national meetings; and a member of the Books and Publications Committee and Recognition Program Committee.

The Supelco AOCS Research Award recognizes outstanding, original research in fats, oils, lipid chemistry or biochemistry. Sponsored by MilliporeSigma, a subsidiary of Sigma-Aldrich Corp.

2020 Recipient

N.A. Michael Eskin is a professor at the University of Manitoba and a Fellow of AOCS, Institute of Food Technologists, Canadian Institute of Food Science and Technology, and the Institute of Food Science and Technology in the UK. He is recognized for his work on edible oils and played a key role in the successful development of canola oil. Dr. Eskin has published over 250 research articles, book chapters, monographs, abstracts and several patents. He has published 15 books, including two on canola. He has also done extensive research on enzymes and gums as well as developed a number of colorimetric methods, including one for phytate that is still used worldwide. He recently celebrated his 50th year at the university where he served as department chair and associate dean. In 2017, he was selected by the students in his faculty as Professor of the Year. Michael is the recipient of many awards, including the Order of Canada in 2016 for his contributions to the worldwide success of canola oil. He served as chair of the AOCS Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division and was the first chair of the AOCS Division Council. In addition to serving as an associate editor of JAOCS, he was coeditor of Lipid Technology for seven years and is associate editor of education for the AOCS Lipid Library. Dr. Eskin was the recipient of the Stephen S. Chang Award from IFT in 2012 and AOCS in 2018. He also received the AOCS Herbert J. Dutton Award in 2017, AOCS Alton Bailey Award in 2013 and AOCS Timothy L. Mounts Award in 2007. He is well known for his Lipid Raps and just completed his latest one on protein.

The Surfactants and Detergents Division Distinguished Service Award recognizes outstanding and commendable service to the surfactants, detergents and soaps industry.

2020 Recipient

Phillip K. Vinson, Procter & Gamble, USA

The Timothy L. Mounts Award of the AOCS Edible Applications Technology Division recognizes research related to the science and technology of edible oils or derivatives in food products, which may be basic or applied in nature.

This award commemorates Timothy Mounts as a distinguished scientist and leader who made numerous contributions to the science and technology of edible fats and oils. Learn more about Timothy Mounts.

2020 Recipients

The Edible Applications Technology Division Student Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentation within the Edible Applications Technology technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does the recipient receive?

Certificate

US $500 honorarium

Up to a US $150 travel allowance

Complimentary Edible Applications Technology Division meal ticket

Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

Graduate students presenting within the Edible Applications Technology Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have not received the Edible Applications Technology Division Student Award

How to apply?

Instructions on how to submit application materials are coming soon. The following application materials must be submitted by October 1.

2020 Recipient

Mahesh M. Kharat, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, USA

The Health and Nutrition Division Student Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentation within the Health and Nutrition technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does the recipient receive?

Certificate

US $250 honorarium

Complimentary Health and Nutrition Division meal ticket

Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

Graduate students presenting within the Health and Nutrition Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have never received the Health and Nutrition Division Student Award

How to apply?

Instructions on how to submit application materials are coming soon. The following application materials must be submitted by October 1.

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

All student poster abstracts submitted and selected for the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Poster Session are eligible for the competition.

How to apply?

No application required. Submit a poster abstract through the AOCS Annual Meeting submission site to be eligible.

2020 Recipient

Not awarded in 2020.

The Lipid Processing and Biotechnology Award recognizes outstanding performance and achievement of graduate students conducting research in lipid processing and biotechnology. Sponsored by the Myande Group Co., Inc.

How to apply?

2020 Recipient

Bingjing Zheng, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, USA

The Peter and Clare G. Kalustian Award is awarded to graduate students doing research towards an advanced degree and is provided by the Dr. Peter and Mrs. Clare Kalustian estate. Dr. Kalustian was a longtime member of AOCS.

What does each recipient receive?

US $300 honorarium for 1st place winner, US $200 honorarium for 2nd place winner and US $100 for 3rd place winner

Complimentary Processing Division meal ticket

Who is eligible?

All student poster abstracts submitted and selected for the Processing Division Poster Session are eligible for the competition.

How to apply?

No application required. Submit a poster abstract through the AOCS Annual Meeting submission site to be eligible.

2020 Recipient

Not awarded in 2020.

The Protein and Co-Products Division Poster Competition recognizes high-quality student posters submitted and presented in the Protein and Co-Products Poster Session at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does each recipient receive?

Certificate

US $300 honorarium for 1st place, US $200 honorarium for 2nd place and US $100 honorarium for 3rd place

Complimentary Protein and Co-Products Division meal ticket

Who is eligible?

All student poster abstracts submitted and selected for the Protein and Co-Products Division Poster Session are eligible for the competition.

How to apply?

No application required. Submit a poster abstract through the AOCS Annual Meeting submission site to be eligible.

2020 Recipient

Not awarded in 2020.

The Ralph H. Potts Memorial Fellowship recognizes graduate students conducting research related to fatty acids and their derivatives, such as long-chain alcohols, amines and other nitrogen compounds. Sponsored by Nouryon.

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

Graduate students attending a North American University (i.e. USA, Canada, Mexico):

whose research involves fatty acids, their derivatives, or surfactants, especially surfactants derived from fats and oils. Research categories include synthesis, processing, utilization, or characterization

who have never received the Ralph H. Potts Memorial Fellowship

How to apply?

Instructions on how to submit application materials are coming soon. The following application materials must be submitted by October 1.

2020 Recipient

Parichat Phaodee, University of Oklahoma, USA

The Surfactants and Detergents Division Student Award recognizes graduate students presenting an outstanding oral or poster presentation within the Surfactants and Detergents technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting.

What does the recipient receive?

Certificate

Up to a US $500 travel allowance

Complimentary Surfactants and Detergents Division meal ticket

Opportunity to present an award lecture at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

Graduate students presenting within the Surfactants and Detergents Division technical program at the AOCS Annual Meeting who have never received the Surfactants and Detergents Division Student Award

How to apply?

Instructions on how to submit application materials are coming soon. The following application materials must be submitted by October 1.

What does the recipient receive?

Who is eligible?

All student poster abstracts submitted and selected for the Surfactants and Detergents Division Poster Session are eligible for the competition.

How to apply?

No application required. Submit a poster abstract through the AOCS Annual Meeting submission site to be eligible.

2020 Recipient

Not awarded in 2020.

The Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship is awarded to graduate students doing research in fats, oils, proteins, surfactants and related materials. The purpose of this graduate fellowship is to encourage, recognize and support outstanding research in a field of study consistent with the areas of interest to AOCS.

This award was established in memory of Dr. Smouse’s dedication and enthusiasm for lipid chemistry and his commitment to family, education, and AOCS. Dr. Smouse was a long-time member and very active volunteer in AOCS, including serving as President of AOCS in 1983. As well as a noted industrial researcher into the flavor chemistry of fats and oils. Archer Daniels Midland Foundation, AOCS Foundation, AOCS, and the family and friends of Dr. Smouse established and assisted in this fellowship’s funding.

Who is eligible?

Graduate students who are AOCS members that:

are conducting research at an educational institution that is conducting fundamental investigations in the chemistry of fats, oils, proteins, surfactants and related materials, with an above average interest in and aptitude for research

have never received the Thomas H. Smouse Memorial Fellowship

Note: the graduate student’s major professor supervising the research must also be a current AOCS member

How to nominate?

The professor should review the application for completeness, and then send the following application materials as a single mailing to the AOCS main office by February 1.

Letter of nomination from the major professor supervising the research

Major professor statement confirming good standing at the university (complete within the application)

At least three letters of recommendation from deans, department heads and/or professors who have supervised the student’s most recent academic work. These letters should present essential facts regarding: 1) scholastic record, 2) character and personality, 3) interest and capability in research, 4) ability to cooperate with others, 5) capacity for work, and 6) extracurricular activities

Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate colleges or university work completed to date

The European Section Travel Grant assists current or past Ph.D. students in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Section and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to two.

What does the recipient(s) receive?

Certificate

Individual grants limited to no more than €750

Opportunity to present in the technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

Current or past Ph.D. students, or within three years of having received the Ph.D. (1st Post Doc), in lipid science at a European university

How to apply?

Send the following application materials as PDF files to awards@aocs.org by December 18.

One-page report detailing the current area of research

Title and summary of presentation

Curriculum Vitae which includes grant procurement, students supervised and published papers

Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting

2020 Recipients

The Industrial Oil Products Division Junior Researcher Travel Grant assists junior-level researchers in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Industrial Oil Products Division and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to two.

What does the recipient(s) receive?

Certificate

Individual grants limited to no more than US $750

Complimentary Industrial Oil Products Division meal ticket

Opportunity to present in the Industrial Oil Products technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

Junior researchers (less than five years of employment) at any institution of higher learning or research laboratory who have not previously received the Industrial Oil Products Division Junior Researcher Travel Grant

Preference given to junior researchers who demonstrate an interest in becoming active in the Industrial Oil Products Division

Full professors are not eligible

How to apply?

Send the following application materials as PDF files to awards@aocs.org by December 18.

Application statement (300–1,000-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments in research and demonstrates how research interests are consistent with activities of the Industrial Oil Products Division

Two-page Curriculum Vitae which includes grant procurement, students supervised and published papers

Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the Industrial Oil Products interest area

2020 Recipient

Not awarded in 2020.

The Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Junior Researcher Travel Grant assists junior-level researchers in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to three.

What does the recipient(s) receive?

Certificate

Individual grants limited to no more than US $1,000

Complimentary Lipid Oxidation and Quality meal ticket

Opportunity to present in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

Junior researchers (less than seven years of employment) at any institution of higher learning or research laboratory who have not previously received the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Junior Researcher Travel Grant

Preference given to junior researchers who demonstrate an interest in becoming active in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division

Full professors are not eligible

How to apply?

Send the following application materials as PDF files to awards@aocs.org by December 18.

Application statement (300–1,000-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments in research and demonstrates how research interests are consistent with activities of the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division

Two-page Curriculum Vitae which includes grant procurement, students supervised and published papers

Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality interest area

2020 Recipient

Not awarded in 2020.

The Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Student Travel Grant assists graduate students in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to four.

What does the recipient receive?

Certificate

Individual grants limited to no more than US $1,000

Complimentary Lipid Oxidation and Quality meal ticket

Opportunity to present in the Lipid Oxidation and Quality technical program during the AOCS Annual Meeting

Who is eligible?

Graduate students who have:

not already received their graduate degree, or begun their career employment prior to May of the presentation year who have:

never received the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Student Travel Grant

Professors are limited to nominating one student per year for this grant

How to apply?

Send the following application materials as PDF files to awards@aocs.org by December 18.

Application statement (300–500-words) describing the significance of the applicant’s accomplishments and progress in research, as well as clearly demonstrates how the applicant’s research interests are consistent with scope and activities of the Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division

Abstract submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting in the lipid oxidation and quality interest area

2020 Recipient

Not awarded in 2020.

The Protein and Co-Products Division Student Poster Travel Grant assists student poster presenters in presenting their work at the AOCS Annual Meeting, as well as encourages them to become active in the Protein and Co-Products Division and the Society. The maximum number of individual grants given per year is limited to five.

What does each recipient receive?

Certificate

Complimentary AOCS Annual Meeting student registration

Complimentary Protein and Co-Products Division meal ticket

Who is eligible?

Student poster submitters that have been selected for Protein and Co-Products Division Poster Session

How to apply?

Send the following application materials as PDF files to awards@aocs.org by December 18.

Abstract and abstract number submitted for the current year’s AOCS Annual Meeting